12th Sicolvia event in downtown SA sets new record

Planners say 83,546 people walked, biked, skated car-free streets

SAN ANTONIO – Siclovia planners said a record number of people turned out to enjoy a stretch of car-free Southtown streets for the fitness-focused event.

An estimated 83,546 people walked, biked and skated the 2.6 mile-long stretch of road that was closed to traffic for several hours Sunday. It was the 12th such event put on by the YMCA of Greater San Antonio.

The biannual events are primarily about getting people fit but in a fun way.

"It's just people having fun," said Deborah Charnes, who said Sunday was her 10th Siclovia. "You know, as they say, play in the street. So it's just a lot of fun."

Charnes said the free event is one of her favorites in the city, and looking around she saw a lot of kids out Sunday.

"Being in the fitness industry, it's really important to start kids early understanding that health and fitness isn't  about making your body ache; it's about having fun and making wise choices," Charnes said.

For others like Gaby Lozana and Adrianna Lerma, it was their first time out on the streets.

"It was both of our days off and it was really nice outside," Lozana said.

"And we love riding our bikes anyways," Lerma added. "So we thought it was perfect to be with our family."
Along the route, people could stop at Reclovias and take part in free group exercises classes.

Mercedes Bristol sweated along to an aerobics class outside Brackenridge High School.

"A little overwhelming at my age," Bristol said, "but it's awesome. It feels good."


About the Author:

Garrett Brnger is a reporter with KSAT 12.